Murder in the Neighbourhood: The true story of America's first recorded mass shooting

On September 6, 1949, Howard Barton Unruh, a 28-year-old man, shot and killed 13 people in less than 12 minutes in East Camden, New Jersey. This event was the first recorded mass shooting in America. Murder in the Neighbourhood, by Ellen Green, tells the story of Unruh and the events leading up to the shooting through the eyes of young Raymond Havens, who witnessed the attack. The book includes access to Unruh's diaries, police reports, and psychiatric records, providing a detailed account of the tragedy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Octopus Publishing Group

On September 6, 1949, a shocking event unfolded in East Camden, New Jersey, marking the first recorded mass shooting in American history. At the age of 28, Howard Barton Unruh embarked on a violent rampage, shooting thirteen people in less than twelve minutes on his block. The true story of this tragic incident has remained largely untold until now.

On that fateful morning, 12-year-old Raymond Havens left his home on River Road, heading to the barbershop across the street to get a haircut. Little did he know, he was about to witness a neighbor and friend, Howard, unleash a deadly attack on the customers inside.

Told through the eyes of young Raymond, who had visited Howard regularly to listen to his war stories, and the mother struggling to understand the disturbing inner workings of her son's mind, "Murder in the Neighbourhood" unveils the chilling truth about Howard Unruh, the quiet loner who meticulously planned his revenge against the neighbors who shunned him.

Through exclusive access to Howard's diaries, newly released police reports, and psychiatric records, along with interviews with surviving family members, "Murder in the Neighbourhood" provides a comprehensive account of this tragic event. It sheds light on the events leading up to the shooting, the psychological factors that drove Howard to commit such acts, and the impact it had on the community.

What makes this story particularly compelling is the human element it explores. Raymond's perspective provides a unique insight into the events, and his relationship with Howard adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. The mother's struggle to comprehend her son's actions and the community's response to the tragedy are also portrayed in depth.

"Murder in the Neighbourhood" is a gripping and utterly fascinating insight into a chilling and untold part of American history. It will leave readers questioning the depths of human behavior and the fragility of our sense of safety. This book is perfect for fans of "In Cold Blood," "If You Tell," and "American Predator."

In conclusion, "Murder in the Neighbourhood" is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime and the human psyche. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of understanding the complexities of human nature.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781909770706